Illinois is home to some of the finest public golf courses in the Midwest, offering a mix of challenging layouts and scenic beauty.
If you're looking for the best, head to Cog Hill’s Dubsdread Course, The Glen Club, TPC Deere Run, Stonewall Orchard, or Harborside International’s Starboard Course—these five standouts provide exceptional golfing experiences.
Keep reading for a detailed breakdown of what makes each course special.
Overview of Illinois’ Golf Landscape
Illinois boasts a rich and diverse golfing environment, making it a prime destination for golf enthusiasts of all levels.
From its historical significance in the sport to the variety of course designs and challenges, Illinois offers a unique blend of tradition and modern golfing experiences.
This section delves into why Illinois is a top choice for golfers and the critical role public courses play in making the sport accessible to everyone.
Illinois as a Golf Destination
Illinois has long been recognized as a significant player in the golfing world, with its history intertwined with the sport’s growth in the United States.
The state is home to a wide range of courses that cater to different skill levels, from casual golfers to those looking for a professional-level challenge.
The golfing culture in Illinois is vibrant, supported by a community that values the sport both for its competitive aspects and its ability to bring people together.
The variety of course designs in Illinois is one of the state’s major draws.
Golfers can find everything from traditional parkland courses with tree-lined fairways to more modern layouts featuring expansive water hazards and strategic bunkering.
Notable architects such as Tom Fazio, Arthur Hills, and Dick Nugent have left their mark on the state, designing courses that not only challenge golfers but also showcase the natural beauty of Illinois’ landscapes.
This variety ensures that golfers can find a course that suits their playing style, whether they prefer the strategic play of a links-style course or the precision required by tighter, more technical layouts.
Moreover, Illinois has hosted numerous prestigious golf tournaments, including PGA Tour events, which have solidified its reputation as a golfing hub.
The state’s courses have been graced by legendary players, contributing to a rich golfing heritage that continues to attract both domestic and international players.
The combination of historical significance and a broad spectrum of course types makes Illinois a must-visit destination for anyone passionate about golf.
Importance of Public Golf Courses
Public golf courses play a crucial role in the accessibility and inclusivity of the sport, particularly in a state like Illinois where golf has such a deep-rooted presence.
Unlike private courses, which often come with hefty membership fees and exclusive access, public courses are open to everyone, making golf more accessible to a broader audience.
This accessibility is vital for fostering a love for the sport across different demographics, including younger players and those who may be new to golf.
Public courses in Illinois are not just about affordability; they also offer high-quality golfing experiences that rival many private clubs.
These courses are maintained to a high standard, with well-kept fairways, challenging layouts, and facilities that enhance the overall experience.
By providing top-notch golf without the barriers of exclusivity, public courses help to democratize the sport, allowing more people to engage with golf in meaningful ways.
Another significant advantage of public golf courses is their role in community building.
These courses often serve as gathering places where people from different backgrounds can come together, share their love for the sport, and form lasting connections.
Public courses also contribute to the local economy by attracting tourists and providing a space for community events.
When comparing public and private courses, the differences in accessibility and affordability are stark.
Private courses tend to be more exclusive, with limited access to members and their guests, and often require a significant financial commitment.
This exclusivity can create a barrier to entry for many potential golfers.
In contrast, public courses are designed to be inclusive, offering everyone the opportunity to enjoy the game regardless of their financial situation.
This inclusivity not only helps to grow the sport but also ensures that golf remains a part of the community fabric, accessible to all who wish to play.
Cog Hill Golf & Country Club (Dubsdread Course)
Cog Hill’s Dubsdread Course is one of the most iconic public golf courses in Illinois, revered for its challenging design and rich history.
Known for hosting multiple PGA Tour events, including several BMW Championships, this course has earned its reputation as a premier destination for serious golfers.
Dubsdread offers a formidable test of skill, making it a must-play for those looking to experience professional-level golf.
History and Legacy
Dubsdread’s history is deeply intertwined with professional golf, having been a regular venue for PGA Tour events.
The course was originally designed by Dick Wilson and Joe Lee in 1964 and quickly gained recognition for its demanding layout.
It became particularly famous for hosting the Western Open, which later became the BMW Championship, a key event in the FedExCup Playoffs.
Legendary golfers, including Tiger Woods, who won here multiple times, have walked its fairways, adding to the course’s storied legacy.
This history not only elevates the course’s prestige but also enhances the experience for golfers who follow in the footsteps of champions.
Course Layout and Design
The layout of the Dubsdread Course is meticulously designed to challenge even the most skilled golfers.
It stretches over 7,600 yards from the championship tees, making it one of the longer courses available to the public.
The front nine is designed to ease players into the round with a series of strategic holes that demand accuracy off the tee.
However, it’s the back nine where the course truly earns its reputation.
The back nine at Dubsdread is renowned for its tighter fairways, well-placed bunkers, and undulating greens that test both precision and mental fortitude.
Holes like the par-4 12th and the par-5 15th are particularly challenging, with water hazards and deep bunkers requiring golfers to make smart, calculated decisions.
The final hole, a long par-4 with a narrow fairway and a well-protected green, often serves as the ultimate test, demanding both distance and accuracy to finish the round strong.
The course’s layout requires players to bring their A-game, with no room for error, particularly on the back nine where the challenge intensifies.
Notable Features
One of the standout features of Dubsdread is its high course rating and slope, which are 78.4 and 151, respectively.
These numbers reflect the course’s difficulty, especially for scratch golfers.
The combination of length, tight fairways, and complex green complexes contribute to this high rating.
Certain holes on the course are particularly noteworthy for their design and difficulty.
The par-3 14th, for example, is famous for its island green, which requires a precise shot to avoid the surrounding water.
The par-4 9th hole is another highlight, featuring a dogleg right with a heavily bunkered landing area that challenges players to find the fairway.
The course’s use of natural terrain, combined with man-made hazards, creates a playing experience that is both visually stunning and technically demanding.
Player Experience
Golfers who play Dubsdread can expect a round that tests every aspect of their game.
From the moment they step onto the first tee, they are greeted with a course that demands focus, strategy, and precision.
The challenge of navigating the tight fairways and contending with the fast, undulating greens requires a high level of skill and mental toughness.
The overall experience at Dubsdread is one of both challenge and reward.
While the course can be punishing for those who stray off line, it also offers moments of satisfaction for well-executed shots and smart course management.
The sense of accomplishment after completing a round at Dubsdread is unparalleled, particularly for those who manage to navigate the course’s many challenges successfully.
Additionally, the course’s facilities, including a well-appointed clubhouse and practice areas, enhance the overall experience, ensuring that golfers have everything they need to prepare for their round.
The staff at Cog Hill are known for their hospitality, contributing to a welcoming atmosphere that balances the course’s intensity with a sense of camaraderie and enjoyment.
The Glen Club
The Glen Club in Glenview, Illinois, is a premier public golf course known for its exceptional design, scenic beauty, and top-tier amenities.
Designed by the renowned golf course architect Tom Fazio, The Glen Club offers a unique blend of challenge and elegance, making it a must-play destination for golfers in Illinois.
Design and Architecture
Tom Fazio, one of the most respected golf course architects in the world, is known for creating courses that are both visually stunning and strategically challenging.
His design philosophy emphasizes the natural beauty of the landscape while ensuring that the course is playable and enjoyable for golfers of all skill levels.
At The Glen Club, Fazio’s design principles are on full display.
The course is built on the site of the former Glenview Naval Air Station, and Fazio skillfully transformed this flat, open land into a dynamic golfing landscape.
The course features gently rolling terrain, strategically placed bunkers, and water hazards that not only add to the aesthetic appeal but also challenge golfers to think carefully about their shots.
Fazio’s use of elevation changes, even on a relatively flat site, adds an extra layer of complexity, requiring players to account for both distance and trajectory.
The greens are large and undulating, providing a test for putting skills, while the fairways are wide enough to accommodate different styles of play, yet narrow enough to penalize errant shots.
Course Highlights
The Glen Club is celebrated for its perfect blend of challenge and beauty, offering a layout that is as pleasing to the eye as it is demanding to play.
The course is known for its meticulous maintenance, with pristine fairways and fast, true greens that enhance the playing experience.
One of the standout holes is the par-3 13th, which features a downhill tee shot to a green surrounded by water, creating a visually stunning and nerve-wracking challenge.
Another key hole is the par-5 18th, which is a true risk-reward hole.
Players can attempt to reach the green in two shots by carrying a large water hazard, or they can play it safe and lay up, making the final approach to a well-bunkered green.
These holes exemplify Fazio’s ability to create memorable experiences that require strategic thinking and precise execution.
The course also offers a variety of hole designs, from long par-4s that test your driving accuracy to shorter, more tactical holes that require careful shot placement.
This variety ensures that no two rounds at The Glen Club feel the same, keeping golfers engaged and challenged throughout their game.
Facilities and Amenities
The Glen Club is not just about the golf course; it offers a full range of facilities and amenities that enhance the overall experience.
The clubhouse is a centerpiece of the property, featuring elegant architecture and luxurious interiors.
Inside, golfers will find a well-stocked pro shop, locker rooms, and dining options that provide everything from casual meals to fine dining experiences.
The practice facilities at The Glen Club are equally impressive, including a driving range, putting green, and short game area where golfers can hone their skills before heading out onto the course.
The club also offers professional instruction for players looking to improve their game, with lessons available from experienced PGA professionals.
In addition to the golf amenities, The Glen Club is also a popular venue for events, including weddings, corporate outings, and golf tournaments.
The combination of beautiful surroundings, top-notch service, and versatile event spaces makes it a preferred choice for special occasions.
Why It’s a Must-Play
The Glen Club stands out among Illinois public courses for several reasons.
First, its design by Tom Fazio ensures a golfing experience that is both challenging and visually stunning.
The course layout is thoughtfully crafted to test all aspects of a golfer’s game, while the well-maintained conditions provide a premium experience from tee to green.
Beyond the course itself, The Glen Club offers a level of service and amenities typically associated with private clubs, making it a unique option for public access.
The combination of the course’s design, the beauty of the setting, and the quality of the facilities makes The Glen Club a must-play destination for any golfer visiting or living in Illinois.
TPC Deere Run
TPC Deere Run in Silvis, Illinois, is a premier public golf course that offers golfers the rare opportunity to play on the same fairways graced by PGA Tour professionals.
Known for hosting the annual John Deere Classic, this course combines a tour-level experience with a design that appeals to golfers of all skill levels.
Tour-Level Experience
TPC Deere Run is best known as the host of the PGA Tour’s John Deere Classic, an event that has become a staple on the Tour’s schedule since its inception in 1971.
This connection to professional golf elevates TPC Deere Run beyond a typical public course, offering everyday golfers a taste of what it’s like to compete at a high level.
The course is meticulously maintained to meet the standards of the PGA Tour, ensuring that every round played here is of the highest quality.
Playing at TPC Deere Run allows golfers to experience the same conditions, challenges, and atmosphere that the world’s best golfers face during the tournament, making it a unique and memorable experience.
Course Design
Designed by former PGA Tour player D.A. Weibring, TPC Deere Run is a course that seamlessly blends natural beauty with strategic challenge.
Weibring’s design philosophy focuses on creating a course that is both playable and visually stunning, making full use of the rolling terrain and the natural landscape along the Rock River.
The course features wide, inviting fairways that encourage aggressive play, but it also demands precision with strategically placed bunkers and water hazards that come into play on several holes.
Weibring’s approach is evident in the way the course unfolds, with each hole offering a unique challenge that tests different aspects of a golfer’s game.
The layout is designed to reward smart play, with opportunities for birdies available to those who can navigate the course’s subtleties.
The course also incorporates elevation changes, especially on the back nine, adding an extra layer of complexity to club selection and shot execution.
Key Features
TPC Deere Run is characterized by several key features that make it both challenging and enjoyable.
One of the most prominent aspects is the undulating greens, which are known for their speed and subtle breaks.
These greens require precise putting and the ability to read the contours carefully, adding a significant challenge, particularly during tournament play when they are at their fastest.
Another defining feature of TPC Deere Run is its strategically placed hazards, including numerous bunkers and water features that protect many of the greens.
For example, the par-4 18th hole is known for its dramatic finishing challenge, with a large pond guarding the green, making it a true test of nerve and accuracy on the final approach shot.
The course also takes full advantage of its natural surroundings, with several holes offering stunning views of the Rock River and the surrounding woodlands.
This natural beauty not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the course but also plays a role in the strategic design, with trees and natural contours influencing shot selection and course management.
Who Should Play Here
TPC Deere Run is a course that caters to a wide range of golfers, from casual players looking for a beautiful and enjoyable round to serious golfers seeking a true test of their skills.
The course is challenging enough to push even the best players, thanks to its tour-level setup and strategic design, but it is also fair and accessible, with multiple tee options that allow golfers of different abilities to find their comfort zone.
Casual golfers will appreciate the course’s beauty and the opportunity to play on a PGA Tour venue, while more serious players will relish the chance to test themselves against a course that has challenged some of the world’s top professionals.
TPC Deere Run is also a great choice for those looking to experience a piece of golfing history, given its long association with the John Deere Classic and its place within the TPC network of courses.
Stonewall Orchard Golf Club
Stonewall Orchard Golf Club in Grayslake, Illinois, is a public course that stands out for its seamless integration with the natural landscape and its commitment to providing a top-quality golfing experience.
Designed by the renowned architect Arthur Hills, the course offers a challenging yet serene environment that appeals to golfers of all skill levels.
Natural Integration
Arthur Hills is known for his ability to design courses that harmonize with the natural environment, and Stonewall Orchard is a prime example of this philosophy.
The course is set amidst mature oak trees, wetlands, and rolling meadows, with Hills taking full advantage of the natural terrain to create a layout that feels as if it has always been a part of the landscape.
Each hole is thoughtfully crafted to follow the natural contours of the land, with minimal disruption to the existing flora and fauna.
This approach not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the course but also presents golfers with a variety of natural challenges, from strategically placed water hazards to undulating fairways that require precise shot placement.
The design reflects Hills’ philosophy of creating courses that are challenging but fair.
Stonewall Orchard is a course where strategy is key; golfers need to think carefully about their shots and how best to navigate the natural features of the land.
This integration of design and nature makes the course a true test of golfing skill, while also providing a visually stunning backdrop for a round of golf.
Course Conditions
Stonewall Orchard is consistently praised for the quality of its course conditions.
The fairways are meticulously maintained, providing a lush, green surface that is both visually appealing and conducive to a great round of golf.
The greens are known for being fast and true, with a smooth roll that challenges even the most experienced putters.
Bunkers are strategically placed and well-maintained, with fine sand that allows for accurate play out of hazards.
The overall maintenance of the course is of the highest standard, ensuring that golfers can enjoy a premium experience every time they play.
The commitment to keeping the course in top condition is evident in every aspect, from the tee boxes to the rough, making Stonewall Orchard a course where players can focus solely on their game without worrying about the quality of the playing surface.
Environment and Atmosphere
One of the most distinctive aspects of Stonewall Orchard is its peaceful, natural setting.
The course is located away from the hustle and bustle of urban life, offering a tranquil environment where golfers can fully immerse themselves in the game.
The presence of mature trees, wetlands, and natural grasses adds to the sense of seclusion, making it easy to forget that you’re just a short drive from the city.
The atmosphere at Stonewall Orchard is one of relaxation and connection with nature.
The absence of surrounding development means that the only sounds you’re likely to hear are the rustling of leaves, the call of birds, and the occasional splash as your ball finds one of the course’s water hazards.
This serene environment not only enhances the enjoyment of the game but also provides a mental respite, allowing golfers to unwind and focus purely on their performance.
Golfing Experience
Stonewall Orchard Golf Club offers a golfing experience that is both challenging and rewarding, making it a great choice for a wide range of players.
The course’s design requires thoughtful strategy and precise shot-making, appealing to more experienced golfers who appreciate a well-crafted challenge.
However, the fairways are forgiving enough, and the layout is varied enough to ensure that less experienced players can also enjoy their round without feeling overwhelmed.
This course is particularly enjoyable for golfers who appreciate a quiet, natural setting where they can play at their own pace without the distractions often found at more urban courses.
The combination of excellent course conditions, strategic design, and a peaceful environment makes Stonewall Orchard an ideal destination for anyone looking to escape the city and enjoy a round of golf in a beautiful, natural setting.
Harborside International Golf Center (Starboard Course)
Harborside International Golf Center’s Starboard Course offers golfers a rare combination of urban proximity and a challenging links-style design, making it one of the most accessible and intriguing public courses in the Chicago area.
Located just minutes from downtown Chicago, the Starboard Course provides an opportunity to experience a top-tier golf course without venturing far from the city.
Urban Proximity
One of the most compelling aspects of Harborside International’s Starboard Course is its proximity to downtown Chicago.
Situated less than 20 minutes from the heart of the city, this course offers the unique advantage of allowing golfers to enjoy a high-quality round without the need for extensive travel.
This urban accessibility makes it a popular choice for both locals and visitors who want to fit in a round of golf during a business trip or a weekend getaway.
The convenience of its location also means that golfers can easily combine their round with other activities in the city, making it an ideal destination for those who want to experience both world-class golf and the vibrant culture of Chicago.
Links-Style Design
The Starboard Course at Harborside International is renowned for its links-style design, which offers a different kind of challenge compared to the more traditional parkland courses found throughout Illinois.
Designed by renowned architect Dick Nugent, the course features rolling fairways, deep bunkers, and large, undulating greens that mimic the characteristics of classic Scottish links courses.
The open layout exposes the course to the wind, adding an additional layer of difficulty that requires golfers to think carefully about their shot selection and strategy.
The course is also defined by its extensive bunkering and strategically placed water hazards, which come into play on several holes.
These features not only challenge golfers to play precise shots but also add to the visual appeal of the course.
The links-style layout demands creativity and adaptability, particularly on windy days when the course can play significantly harder.
Golfers will find that the Starboard Course tests their ability to manage distance and trajectory, making it a course that rewards both power and finesse.
Accessibility and Amenities
Harborside International Golf Center is designed with accessibility in mind, making it easy for golfers of all levels to enjoy the Starboard Course.
The course offers multiple tee boxes, allowing players to choose the level of difficulty that best suits their game.
This makes the Starboard Course accessible to a wide range of golfers, from beginners to more experienced players.
In addition to the course itself, Harborside International boasts a full range of amenities designed to enhance the overall golfing experience.
The clubhouse offers a well-stocked pro shop, dining facilities, and spacious locker rooms, providing everything golfers need for a comfortable and enjoyable day on the course.
The practice facilities are also top-notch, with a large driving range, putting greens, and short game areas where players can hone their skills before their round.
The course is also known for its excellent pace of play, thanks in part to its thoughtful design and management.
Despite its proximity to a major urban center, the Starboard Course rarely feels crowded, allowing golfers to enjoy their round without feeling rushed.
Player Experience
Playing the Starboard Course is an experience that combines the thrill of a challenging layout with the convenience of urban access.
Golfers can expect a round that tests all aspects of their game, from driving and approach shots to chipping and putting.
The course’s links-style design requires careful shot planning and execution, particularly when dealing with the wind and the strategically placed hazards.
Standout holes include the par-4 9th, which features a narrow fairway bordered by water, and the par-5 18th, a challenging finishing hole with a well-protected green that demands accuracy on both the approach and the final putt.
These holes, along with the course’s overall design, ensure that golfers will be both challenged and engaged throughout their round.
In terms of difficulty, the Starboard Course is suitable for a wide range of golfers, but it is particularly appealing to those who enjoy strategic play and the unique challenges of a links-style layout.
The course’s combination of design, location, and amenities makes it a must-play for anyone looking to experience one of Chicago’s best public golf offerings.
How to Choose the Right Course for You
Selecting the right golf course can significantly impact your enjoyment of the game, whether you're a seasoned player or a beginner.
With a wide variety of public golf courses available in Illinois, it's essential to consider several factors to ensure you choose a course that matches your skill level, preferences, and needs.
Assessing Your Skill Level
Your skill level is one of the most crucial factors to consider when choosing a golf course.
Beginners and high-handicap golfers should look for courses that offer a more forgiving layout, with wider fairways and fewer hazards.
These types of courses are designed to be more accommodating, allowing newer players to enjoy the game without becoming overly frustrated by difficult conditions.
For more experienced golfers, selecting a course that presents a greater challenge can be more rewarding.
Look for courses with narrower fairways, complex greens, and strategically placed hazards that require precise shot-making and a thoughtful approach to each hole.
Advanced players might also seek out courses with a higher course rating and slope, as these metrics indicate a more challenging round.
If you're unsure of your skill level, consider reflecting on your recent rounds of golf.
Evaluate how you performed on various courses and which aspects of your game—such as driving accuracy, short game, or putting—might benefit from a particular type of course layout.
Matching the course difficulty to your skill level will ensure a more enjoyable experience.
Understanding Course Ratings and Slope
Course ratings and slope are essential metrics that can help you determine whether a course is suited to your ability.
The course rating indicates the difficulty of a course for a scratch golfer (someone who has a handicap of zero), while the slope rating measures the relative difficulty of the course for a bogey golfer (someone with a handicap around 18) compared to a scratch golfer.
A higher course rating suggests that the course will be more challenging, with factors like longer holes, more hazards, and tougher greens.
The slope rating, which typically ranges from 55 to 155, provides additional insight into how difficult the course will be for an average golfer.
A higher slope rating means that the course will be more challenging for players with a higher handicap.
When choosing a course, compare the ratings to your current skill level. If you're a beginner or a high-handicap player, look for courses with a lower slope rating, which will be more forgiving.
If you're an advanced player, a higher slope rating can provide the challenge you're seeking.
Location and Accessibility
Location and accessibility are practical considerations that can significantly influence your choice of a golf course.
If you're a local resident, you'll want to select a course that is conveniently located, allowing for easy access and regular play.
Consider the distance from your home or workplace and whether the course is situated in an area with good traffic flow and parking facilities.
For visitors to Illinois, the proximity of the course to your accommodation or other planned activities is important.
If you're staying in downtown Chicago, for example, a course like Harborside International, which is close to the city center, might be ideal.
On the other hand, if you're looking for a more tranquil and secluded golfing experience, you might opt for a course located in the suburbs or rural areas, such as Stonewall Orchard.
Additionally, consider the accessibility of the course in terms of tee time availability.
Popular courses, especially those near urban centers, can book up quickly, particularly on weekends and during peak seasons.
Planning ahead and booking your tee time well in advance can help ensure you get to play at your desired course.
Prioritizing Course Features and Amenities
The features and amenities offered by a golf course can greatly enhance your overall experience, so it's essential to prioritize what matters most to you.
For some golfers, top-notch practice facilities, such as a driving range, short game area, and putting greens, are crucial for warming up before a round or improving their skills.
Others might prioritize the quality of the clubhouse amenities, including dining options, pro shops, and locker rooms.
If you enjoy a post-round meal or drink, a course with a well-regarded restaurant or bar might be more appealing.
Additionally, some courses offer extra amenities like golf instruction, equipment rentals, and even spa services, which can add to the overall experience, especially if you're planning a full day at the course.
Consider what aspects of the golfing experience are most important to you and choose a course that aligns with those priorities.
Whether it's the challenge of the course itself, the quality of the practice facilities, or the comfort and convenience of the clubhouse, selecting a course that meets your needs will ensure a satisfying and enjoyable round.
Planning Your Golf Trip in Illinois
Planning a golf trip in Illinois involves more than just picking the right courses to play; it requires careful consideration of timing, accommodations, and logistical details to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience.
This guide provides everything you need to know to plan a successful golf trip in Illinois, from choosing the best time to visit to finding nearby accommodations and booking tee times.
Best Times to Visit
Illinois experiences a range of weather conditions throughout the year, making it important to choose the right season for your golf trip.
The ideal golfing seasons in Illinois are late spring, summer, and early fall.
- Late Spring (May to June): This period is one of the best times to golf in Illinois. The weather is generally mild, with temperatures ranging from the 60s to 70s (°F), and the courses are in excellent condition as they emerge from winter dormancy. Spring also sees the blooming of trees and flowers, enhancing the beauty of the courses.
- Summer (July to August): Summer is the peak golf season in Illinois, with warm temperatures often reaching the 80s and 90s (°F). This is the busiest time for courses, so expect more competition for tee times. However, the long days allow for early morning or late afternoon rounds, avoiding the heat of midday.
- Early Fall (September to October): Early fall is another great time to golf in Illinois. The weather cools down to a comfortable range, usually between the 60s and 70s (°F), and the changing foliage provides stunning scenery on many courses. The courses are still in excellent shape, and the crowds are typically lighter than in the summer.
While golfing in the winter is possible, especially in southern Illinois, it is generally not recommended due to colder temperatures and potential snow, which can impact course conditions.
Accommodations and Nearby Attractions
Choosing the right accommodations can enhance your golf trip by providing convenience and comfort.
Depending on which courses you plan to play, there are several accommodation options available, ranging from luxurious resorts to budget-friendly hotels.
- Near Cog Hill Golf & Country Club (Lemont, IL): For those playing at Cog Hill, there are several accommodation options in nearby Lemont, including The Champagne Lodge & Luxury Suites for a more upscale experience or Comfort Inn for a more budget-friendly stay. After your round, explore the historic downtown Lemont, or take a short drive to the Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve for a scenic hike.
- Near The Glen Club (Glenview, IL): Stay at the Renaissance Chicago Glenview Suites Hotel or Delta Hotels by Marriott Chicago North Shore for comfort and proximity to The Glen Club. In addition to golf, you can visit The Grove nature preserve or shop and dine at The Glen Town Center.
- Near TPC Deere Run (Silvis, IL): For those heading to TPC Deere Run, the Radisson on John Deere Commons-Moline offers convenience and comfort. Consider visiting the John Deere Pavilion to explore the history of the famous brand or taking a stroll along the Great River Trail along the Mississippi River.
- Near Stonewall Orchard Golf Club (Grayslake, IL): Stay at The DoubleTree by Hilton Libertyville-Mundelein for a comfortable and close option. While in the area, you can visit Six Flags Great America or enjoy a day at Independence Grove Forest Preserve with its scenic lake and trails.
- Near Harborside International Golf Center (Chicago, IL): If you’re playing at Harborside International, staying in downtown Chicago provides access to a wide range of accommodations, from luxury hotels like The Langham, Chicago to more affordable options like Hampton Inn Chicago McCormick Place. Take advantage of your location by exploring Chicago’s many attractions, including Navy Pier, Millennium Park, and the city’s renowned museums.
Booking Tee Times and Course Availability
Booking tee times in advance is essential, especially during peak seasons when demand is high.
Here are some tips to ensure you secure your preferred tee times:
- Plan Ahead: For popular courses like Cog Hill, The Glen Club, and TPC Deere Run, it’s advisable to book tee times several weeks, if not months, in advance, particularly if you plan to play during peak summer weekends or holidays.
- Weekday Rounds: If your schedule allows, consider booking tee times on weekdays. Courses are generally less crowded, and you might find it easier to secure a preferred time. Additionally, weekday rates are often lower than weekend rates.
- Early Morning or Late Afternoon: Booking tee times early in the morning or late in the afternoon can help you avoid the midday heat, especially in the summer. These times are also less likely to be fully booked, offering more flexibility in your schedule.
- Use Online Booking Platforms: Many Illinois golf courses offer online booking through their websites or third-party platforms like GolfNow or TeeOff. These platforms often provide real-time availability and the option to secure discounted rates for specific times.
- Consider Golf Packages: Some courses, especially those associated with resorts or in popular golfing areas, offer golf packages that include multiple rounds, accommodations, and other perks. These packages can offer good value and simplify the planning process.
Conclusion
In summary, Illinois offers a diverse and rewarding golf experience with top public courses that cater to all skill levels.
By carefully planning your trip, considering factors like timing, location, and course difficulty, you can ensure a memorable round at any of the state's premier courses.
Whether you're a local or visiting, Illinois' golf scene is well worth exploring.
